Music & Worship

Kids Choir Camp 2012: A Soldier of the Cross!

"I'm a soldier of the Cross
I'm a follower of the Lamb,
I'm a true believer in the word of God,
I'm a Christian, yes, I am!"

With these wonderful lyrics swirling around the minds and hearts (and voices!) of 116 campers and 45+ staffers, the 2012 rendition of KIDS CHOIR CAMP came to a splendid conclusion. As in past years, the Camp was a challenging and rewarding opportunity to work with the children of Seventh Reformed, the neighborhood surrounding the church - and kids from all around the Grand Rapids area. (15 cities!)

As in past years, I want to thank Jeanne Wise for her tireless efforts in spending countless hours working to make each day of the Camp a great success. Also, I want to thank Marlene for her support as our family is totally transformed for many weeks. Our preparation began later this year (April 1), but the end result was gratifying! We had a great team of volunteers - and the Lord's grace was evident!

As you look through this report, you will notice that by Friday night's Festival of Praise, each Camper received 4-5 Scripture verses, three hymns and 6-8 musical anthems to learn. Our Alleluia Choir (1st and 2nd graders) recited from memory the entire 23rd Psalm before they sang the anthem: "The Lord is My Shepherd!" All of the anthems and Scripture verses were coordinated to highlight the four great "Heroes of the Faith" and to emphasize the theme: "A Soldier of the Cross". Bob Shellenberg returned this year to guide the campers through the important Scripture passages and stories. Because we used music to coordinate the verses and stories, the impact of our "Heroes" and the supporting Scriptures will be part of the Campers' lives for years to come!

The staff of KCC was talented, hardworking, positive and helpful in every way. Their love for the Lord, and the children, was displayed on a daily basis. All in all, it was a great week of teamwork and collaboration. PLEASE THANK THEM FOR THEIR WORK!

The concluding Festival of Praise was inspirational. Over 350 children and adults gathered to witness the work of the various choirs. It was satisfying to see all of the activities of the week come together for God's glory and the cause of Christ. Parents were supportive and grateful for the "beautiful music". One said, "our kids will be singing these songs all around the house all summer..." Truly, KCC provides a strong outreach to the entire city and aligns beautifully with the mission and vision of Seventh.

Parental Feedback

"You run a great camp...Thank you for all you did to welcome us to your church and teach music and biblical literacy..."

"How welcoming and nice EVERYONE was!"

"I think kids need to start getting back into choirs because they are cool."

"This is our 2nd year of Camp. We plan to be back."

"Thank you, Thank you!"

Children and Kids Choir Camp

As noted above, one of the most significant aspects of KCC is the outpouring of support from the parents of the Campers. They are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to immerse their children in music that is distinctly different from the culture--if only for a week!

"Singing engages the entire person!" For the Christian, song is the vehicle that unites the emotions and the mind in praise and worship to the Lord. We are committed to a music program that exalts Jesus Christ and fulfills the biblical admonition to "Make His Praise Glorious."